Quick Info
When: Mid-August through October. Where: Palisade wine country near Grand Junction. Highlight: Colorado Mountain Winefest in September. Key tip: Book hotels early for Winefest weekend.
Colorado wine country is real, and it's centered in Palisade on the Western Slope. This high-desert region near Grand Junction produces award-winning wines from grapes grown at elevation. Fall harvest season brings crush festivals, grape stomping, and the best time to visit.
The Palisade area has over 20 wineries within a few miles, making it easy to taste your way through the region. The combination of warm days, cool nights, and intense high-altitude sunshine creates conditions that produce surprisingly excellent wines - a secret that's slowly getting out.
Fall Wine Events
Colorado Mountain Winefest in September is the signature event - two days of grand tastings, grape stomping, food pairings, and live music. Multiple venues in Palisade participate. This is the premier Colorado wine celebration.
Harvest parties at individual wineries run throughout the season. Release parties feature new vintages, special tastings, and behind-the-scenes tours. Each winery has its own schedule and style.
Grape stomping is available at several wineries - get in the barrels and stomp grapes the old-fashioned way. Fun photo ops and a unique harvest experience you won't forget.
Wine Country Tips
Designate a driver. Wine tours require someone to stay sober. Consider a tour company with transportation. Uber and Lyft are limited in rural Palisade.
Book hotels early. Winefest weekend sells out hotels in the area. Book months in advance for September visits. Grand Junction has more options but fills up too.
Try the peaches too. Palisade is famous for peaches as well as wine. Late summer into early fall has fresh fruit at orchards and fruit stands everywhere. The combination is pure Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions
What wines is Palisade known for?
The region produces excellent Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Syrah, along with unique varietals that thrive at elevation. Many wineries also produce fruit wines featuring Palisade peaches and other local fruits.
How many wineries can I visit in a day?
Four to six is reasonable with a designated driver. The wineries are close together, but you'll want time to taste, talk with winemakers, and enjoy the scenery. Quality over quantity.
Can I ship wine home?
Most wineries can ship. Colorado wines are hard to find out of state, so stocking up makes sense. Check your state's shipping laws - some states restrict wine shipments.
Is it worth the drive from Denver?
It's about 4 hours from Denver - worth it for a weekend trip. Combine with Grand Junction, Colorado National Monument, or Fruita mountain biking for a full Western Slope adventure.